Preparing your Vehicle for Emissions Testing

by | Feb 23, 2018 | air filters, Blog, Emission Test, emissions, Emissions Testing

In Ontario, certain vehicles must pass a Drive Clean emissions test before it can legally be driven on the road. By taking the Drive Clean test, you can determine if your vehicle is deemed road worthy by Ontario Emissions standards.
Emissions tests are done to make sure vehicles are not discharging an unacceptable amount of hazardous waste into the environment.

How do you know if an emissions test is required for your automobile?

Most vehicle owners don’t think about servicing their vehicles until an engine light comes on, or a strange sound begins to persist.
There is no specific indicator in your vehicle that will let you know when it is time for an emissions test, but there are some general guidelines to follow.

Older Vehicles

If you have recently purchased a new vehicle, an emissions test will not be required to get that vehicle on the road.
It’s only after a car is about seven years old that emissions tests will start to become mandatory.
Around this time, you will likely receive a notice in the mail or online that an emissions test is required for your vehicle.
After receiving this message, you will not be able to renew your vehicle’s registration until an emissions test has been completed and passed.

Online Tools

There are several tools and features online that can help keep you updated and informed about any upcoming test requirements.
Some of the tools available are:

  • Email reminders from Service Ontario
  • Vehicle search for mandatory tests
  • Vehicle search for Drive Clean history
  • Search to see if a used car you are thinking of purchasing is due for a test
  • Search to see if you are eligible for a free emissions test

Most of these searches can be done on the Drive Clean website, where you can find the information you are looking for.

Preparing your Vehicle for Emissions Testing

There are certain precautions and preparations that can be made before an emissions test is taken, to increase the chance of favorable results.
Some things you can do in advance are:

  • Make sure your car is completely warmed up before taking the test
  • Have your brakes checked
  • Check front wheels to ensure proper alignment
  • Change air filters
  • Make sure all coolants and fluids are topped up and clean
  • Oil change (if needed)
  • Make sure check engine light is not on

Something you should definitely do before an emissions test, is make sure to run your vehicle so it is fully warmed up. Drive it for at least 20 minutes before testing.
It is also recommended to have an overall tune up done before a test, to ensure there are no outstanding issues that you are not aware of.
One thing is certain, if the check engine light comes on in your car during your emissions test, your vehicle will not pass inspection in Ontario.

Emissions Test Brampton

If you live in the Brampton area, and will be needing an emissions test for your vehicle in the near future, Valvoline Express Care Brampton is a perfect choice.
The expert technicians at Valvoline can not only help you get your vehicle ready for inspection, they are also a licensed Drive Clean Test Station.

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

Valvoline Express Care is an ideal selection for your Drive Clean emissions test for many reasons. Some of the benefits of a Valvoline emissions test are:

  • Fast and efficient
  • Pre-test to make sure your vehicle is ready
  • Professional and knowledgeable staff
  • Authorized by the Ontario Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
  • Earn reward points that can be used for other services by downloading the app

Emissions Testing Brampton: Looking To Pass The Drive Clean Test?

by | Dec 20, 2016 | Blog, emissions, emissions testing brampton

Your battery is dead and the cable isn’t long enough to reach. Even your check engine light is not illuminated.
Unfortunately, some common problems can make it impossible for vehicles to pass the emissions test. Don’t ignore the warning signs. When your car fails a smog check, get it to Valvoline Express Care Brampton as soon as possible. Our trusted technicians can diagnose and repair the problem so that you pass emissions testing with flying colors.

What exactly is the Ontario drive clean test?

Drive Clean is Ontario’s mandatory vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program that seeks to reduce smog-causing pollutants and its harmful effects on the air we breathe. Your car, truck and SUV must meet current emissions standards, before it can be licensed to drive on Ontario roads. Vehicles that fail the test must be repaired and retested. We offer Brampton Emission testing services to residents all over the GTA.

When do I need my car tested?

Once your vehicle is seven years old it will require the emissions test every two years. Larger vehicles, also referred to as “heavy-duty,” require the test every year once the vehicle becomes seven years old. Keep in mind, your vehicle will need to pass the emissions test before you can get your new license plate sticker.

Emissions testing Brampton can offer you:

The Pre-Test Process for Emissions Testing
A visual check will make sure there will be no issues to staff or testing equipment. This process includes: searching for missing catalytic converter and gas caps, defects in fuel filler pipe and other emission testing areas, on-board computer errors that would prevent the vehicle from being tested, visible smoke from the tailpipe and other key areas of the vehicle, and any additional problems that are visible and could affect the test.
Tail pipe testing
Depending on the vehicle you own, a clean air check requires different types of emissions tests. At emissions testing Brampton, we measure the carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions released out of the tailpipe.
Heavy duty vehicles testing
Some older vehicles may have the on-board system. Otherwise, we have other options for emissions testing. Emissions testing Brampton can test these vehicles by conducting a two-speed idle test (for gasoline vehicles), conducting an opacity test (depending if your vehicle is diesel), and scanning your OBD computer.
Opacity tests for diesel fueled vehicles
Required for heavy duty or diesel fuel vehicle, this test measures the smoke density by inspecting the vehicle’s exhaust.
At emissions testing Brampton, we make sure all systems on your car are healthy and working as they should. A computerized diagnostic test will help us monitor the vehicle’s emission system and engine. We then use this data to satisfy your vehicles exact needs.
With regular maintenance at emissions testing Brampton, you’re off to a good start in passing the emissions test! It’s crucial that you pass this mandated inspection if you want to continue driving your car. Failing or dodging emission testing can result in your being denied registration of your vehicle. What’s worse? You may rack up some hefty fines and legal penalties in Ontario.

Why choose emissions testing Brampton?

  • We provide a faster, more accurate emissions test that helps keep your car in better running condition (improve safety and even gas mileage).
  • We identify emissions systems problems for more effective repairs.
  • We reduce more harmful smog from vehicle emissions.
  • Getting your vehicle’s emission tested earns you points and discounts on other services (just download our Valvoline app).

Do what’s best for your vehicle and the environment by stopping at emissions testing Brampton – and we’ll set up you with a drive clean test. Our team is certified and authorized to perform Ontario emissions testing. We can pass your vehicle or help you repair your emission system if your vehicle fails. Keep your vehicle and the air you breathe clean.